BREATHALYZER Meaning and
Definition
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A breathalyzer is a portable device that is used to measure the blood alcohol content (BAC) in the breath of a person suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. The term "breathalyzer" is often used generically to refer to any similar device used for this purpose, but it is technically the brand name of a specific type of breath alcohol testing instrument.
The operation of a breathalyzer involves the individual exhaling into a mouthpiece attached to the device. The breath sample is then analyzed to determine the concentration of alcohol vapor present in the exhaled air. This measurement is converted into a numerical reading, usually the percentage of alcohol in the bloodstream, which indicates the level of intoxication. The results obtained from a breathalyzer test can serve as strong evidence proving impairment in legal proceedings related to driving under the influence (DUI) offenses.
Breathalyzers are widely utilized by law enforcement agencies, as well as in various industries where assessing alcohol levels is critical for safety, such as aviation or transportation. The design and technology of breathalyzers have evolved over time, with modern devices often employing semiconductor sensors or infrared spectroscopy to analyze the breath sample and produce precise BAC readings.
It is important to note that while breathalyzers are generally reliable instruments, they may not always provide completely accurate readings, and certain factors can influence the results, such as medical conditions or the presence of other substances. Therefore, breathalyzer readings should be considered as supportive evidence rather than definitive proof in legal proceedings.
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Etymology of BREATHALYZER
The word "breathalyzer" is a blend of the words "breath" and "analyzer". It was coined by Robert Frank Borkenstein, a Captain of the Indiana State Police, who developed the first practical device for measuring blood alcohol content (BAC) from a breath sample in 1954. Borkenstein worked on creating an instrument to test drivers' sobriety and came up with the name "breathalyzer" to describe his invention accurately. The term "breathalyzer" has since become a genericized trademark and is now commonly used to refer to any device that measures BAC from a breath sample.
Similar spelling words for BREATHALYZER
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